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Great Northern Beans with Smoked Turkey Necks and Ho Cakes

A comforting Southern dish that features nutritious great northern beans, smoked turkey necks, and delicious ho cakes, making it perfect for family gatherings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound great northern beans Soaked overnight
  • 2 pieces smoked turkey necks
  • 1 piece onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • to taste Salt and pepper
Ho Cakes
  • 2 cups cornmeal
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 piece egg
  • as needed for frying oil

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Soak the great northern beans overnight in water. Drain and rinse.
Cooking Beans
  1. In a large pot, add the soaked beans, smoked turkey necks, onion, garlic, and chicken broth.
  2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 1-1.5 hours until beans are tender.
  3. Season with salt and pepper.
Making Ho Cakes
  1. In a bowl, mix cornmeal, salt, and baking powder.
  2. In another bowl, whisk together buttermilk and egg, then combine with dry ingredients.
  3. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  4. Pour batter into the skillet to form small cakes and cook until golden brown on both sides.
Serving
  1. Serve the beans with turkey necks alongside the ho cakes, and add hot sauce to taste.

Notes

Leftover beans can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Ho cakes should be stored separately. Reheat in the microwave or skillet with a splash of water if beans seem dry.